Pronunciation: [snˈi͡əd at] (IPA) 
The word "sneered at" is spelled with the IPA transcription /snɪrd æt/. The "s" is pronounced as /s/, the "n" as /n/, and the "ee" as /i/. The "r" in the word is followed by a silent "e". The "d" at the end of the word is pronounced as /t/ due to the presence of the past tense verb "at" in this phrase. It is important to spell words correctly to ensure clear communication and understanding between individuals.
"Sneered at" refers to a contemptuous expression or gesture made towards someone or something, typically accompanied by a derogatory or mocking tone. It is an act of showing disdain, scorn, or disrespect towards a person, their ideas, actions, or beliefs. The term "sneer" is derived from the Old Norse word "snar," which means to snort or deride.
When someone sneers at another person, they often curl their lips upwards on one side, presenting a smirking or sarcastic smile. This expression is a clear indication of their negative opinion or superior attitude towards the individual they are sneering at. Sneering can also be performed verbally, through the use of mocking or ridicule in one's tone of voice.
The act of sneering often reflects feelings of arrogance, superiority, or condescension. It serves as a tool to belittle or dismiss someone's opinion, appearance, or actions. Sneering can also manifest when someone is seeking to assert their dominance or display their own sense of self-importance.
Furthermore, sneering may occur as a reaction to someone or something that is offensive, ridiculous, or deemed unworthy of respect. It is a way of expressing contempt or disdain without engaging in open confrontation or aggression.
In summary, "sneered at" is when someone adopts a contemptuous expression or tone to ridicule or dismiss another individual, their beliefs, or their actions. It emphasizes the expression of disdain, scorn, or contempt towards someone or something.
The word "sneer" dates back to the late 16th century and is derived from the Middle Dutch word "snieren", meaning "to laugh derisively" or "to grin mockingly". This Middle Dutch term, in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic word "snarkjaną", which means "to search out" or "to seek out".
Over time, the meaning of "snarkjaną" shifted to include the sense of seeking out someone's weaknesses or faults in order to mock or ridicule them, which eventually evolved into the modern meaning of "sneer" as a disdainful or contemptuous expression. The addition of the preposition "at" to "sneer" indicates the specific target of the derision or mockery.
